Huge row erupts as Greater Manchester council slammed over Veganuary post

Tameside Council has come under fire for allegedly promoting veganism.

The Countryside Alliance (CA) urged the council to drop its support for Veganuary and, instead, support freedom of choice and local farmers. This comes after the council issued a media release saying ‘Think Green and sign up to join Veganuary with the aim to support the environment and improve your health and wellbeing’.

Tameside Council has denied this is an endorsement of veganism and explained it was offering the option of a common new year’s resolution.

Try MEN Premium now with our amazing New Year offer... just click here to give it a try

The release, which was a point of controversy for the CA, claimed that a plant-based diet will reduce large amounts of air, soil and water pollution, and cut the need to use a great number of natural resources that it takes to provide meat and fish to the population. The Countryside Alliance say these ‘simplistic claims’ not only mislead residents but 'pose an attack to British farmers altogether'.

In the Veganuary release, issued on January 4, Tameside Council executive member for Climate Emergency & Environmental Services, Coun Denise Ward, said: “It is crucial that as a consumer we do what we can to help support the environment, as it’s said that it is the single most effective contribution an individual can make to protect the planet. So, we are encouraging everyone to make the switch for the month or to try and make greener choices where they can.”

Tameside Council Executive Member for Population Health and Wellbeing Coun Eleanor Wills, then added: “Veganuary is a wonderful opportunity for residents to improve their health and wellbeing, and with it just being for the month of January it’s a chance to